As we head into the holidays it can be easy to fall into the hustle and bustle of to-dos, shopping lists, and packed schedules. Have you ever felt overwhelmed, forgotten the underlying theme of giving thanks, and spent mindless minutes scrolling through reels in a desperate attempt to regain sanity, or take a mini vacation from it all? Research shows that breaking this pattern and carving out time and space amidst the busyness to unplug, is a way to bring ourselves back to the present moment, focus on what’s most important, and reinvigorate our sense of thankfulness.
When we unplug, we take a break from the constant barrage of information and content flooding our daily lives. We can use this time and space to reflect internally, as well as to become more present and connected with our loved ones.
Before you turn the page, thinking you don’t have time to unplug, let’s consider the benefits. Depending on your digital use, unplugging can relieve mental clutter within minutes or hours. Prolonged sessions of unplugging can lead to better sleep and mood. When we unplug, if we intentionally train our attention on the positive things around us, we naturally reduce stress, as well as feelings of anxiety and depression. This can improve relationships, promote connection and belonging. All this together provides fertile ground for greater self-esteem and overall happiness.
Whether you unplug in big or small ways, simply choosing to unplug can work wonders in and of itself. The big idea is that you make a conscious choice to create time for yourself that is free of digital diversion. This allows you to be more present with your physical world and engage in your activities with an enhanced level of focus. It facilitates deeper in-person connections and opens you up to rediscovering offline hobbies, skills, talents, and passions. All of these things contribute to the satisfaction and contentment that comes with having a sense of purpose, meaning, and authentically enjoying one's experiences.
How does this tie back into thankfulness? The true quality of our lives is measured in the quality of our experiences lived between digital engagements. The true stuff of life is created and enjoyed within ourselves, in nature, and with others. Unplugging not only brings us into a more profound presence, which can lead to greater internal stillness, but it also helps us to create a richer life, filled with the things, and the people, for which we are most thankful.
To continue this discussion further, contact Rebecca at www.rebeccaboswell.com/connect.
In lieu of a full Digital Detox, unplug in these 4 ways and reinvigorate your thankfulness:
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Head out into nature untethered by technology. Find a park, trail, or body of water for a mini retreat. Allow your experience to flow through each of your senses. What can you appreciate and be thankful for? Enjoy this on your own, with a pet, or with others.
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Dedicate time and space to singular tech-less focus, taking a break from multi-tasking. Not only does this lead to greater efficiency, being fully present with what you are doing, whether personal or professional, allows you to appreciate the details of what you are doing.
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Swap Reels for Rituals. Instead of mindlessly consuming content, use the time to create daily rituals like beginning your day with a positive intention, or reflecting on the three things you are grateful for before going to bed.
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Plan a tech-free getaway. Plan a full day or two away, where you can be free from technology. Immerse yourself in the present moment and savor the details of your experience whether on your own, or with another.